First Gynecologic Visit
A gynecologic visit focuses on the female reproductive organs and functions. Young women should have their first gynecologic visit between the ages of 13 years and 15 years.
What to expect…
At your first visit, your doctor will ask you a lot of information about you and your family. Some questions may seem personal, but it is important that you answer these questions open and honestly so that your doctor will know how to care for you and keep you healthy. Your first visit may just be a talk with your doctor. However, some doctors will perform a series of exams depending on your age, if you have had sex, or if you have any problems.
At your first visit, exams may include:
- General Physical Exam
- Breast Exam
- Pelvic Exam
- Pap Test
Click here for an in depth website about your first visit to the Gynecologist
Share a Moment
You don't think breast cancer is something you have to worry about when you're in your twenties. But two of my college roommates have had scares, giving us a reason to worry. At least for a moment.
At 21, Ashley's doctor noticed what he called a strange growth in her breast. Off she went to a specialist to find out more about this concerning mass. After a few sleepless nights and some freaked out loved ones, a sonogram showed the growth was most likely a Fibroadenoma.
A few years later, a new doctor was concerned about the lumps and recommended a needle biopsy just to be sure they were, in fact, nothing over which to fret. The needle biopsy showed they were still benign. Several years later, my friend still does regular breast exams to be sure the shape and size of the Fibroadenomas don't change, and she'll likely have them removed someday in the near future, to avoid any heightened risk of breast cancer.
Another dear friend was just a little older when she discovered a large lump in her breast. She gave it a few weeks, thinking it may be hormone related. When it didn't go away on its own, she went to see a breast specialist who was also a young woman. The doctor was surprised by the size of the lump and did an immediate biopsy. She also inserted a porcelain chip so they could monitor any changes in the future. After a week, Terri got a call that the lump checked out and it was simply scar tissue. The doctor gave her the option to have it removed, but after weighing the pros and cons of the surgery she decided instead to keep a close eye on it.
In the end, both of my friends were blessed with good results. Still, their experiences serve as a reminder for all of us to be vigilant about our health and to remain that way, even if something checks out okay.
My mother was my best friend. She lived with us, got along great with my husband and helped us raise our kids. She passed away a few years ago after a long illness. Following her death, I discovered that grief doesn't go away in weeks or even months. For me, the process took a couple of years. If you've lost someone special to you, I urge you not to hide your feelings. Share them with someone you trust. A friend or loved one will understand, hold your hand and see you through the sadness. Today the hurt is gone and in its place are feelings of fondness, even humor. In many ways, my mother lives on. She still influences my decisions and inspires me to greater achievement. I look forward to seeing her again someday in heaven. Until then, I'll treasure the memories and try to live up to her legacy.
"I'm sorry for your loss. I understand the loss of a mother and my heart goes out to your family. My prayers are with you always because it will be hard as you said. Work helps to cope with a loss. Make sure to share your thoughts with someone and you will get through this tough time."
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